Hsinchu City Councilor Urges Scientific Rat Control; City Launches Cloud-Based Bait Reporting Form

(Central News Agency, Hsinchu City, June 3) Hsinchu City Councilor Cheng Mei-chuan (DPP) stated today that rat infestations are frequent in many public spaces within the city, urging the establishment of a scientific and systematic rat control mechanism. The city government responded that it has created a cloud-based form for reporting the placement of rodenticide baits and will continue disinfection and control measures.

During a question session at the Hsinchu City Council today, Councilor Cheng Mei-chuan said she has recently received reports from citizens about rat sightings in several locations, including the connecting corridor from Hsinchu Railway Station to the bus terminal, the sunken plaza in front of the station, and Jianguo Park.

Councilor Cheng pointed out that many international cities have integrated rat management into public health policy, establishing long-term data through infrared monitoring, AI identification, and fixed bait stations. Hsinchu City currently lacks a continuous monitoring system, and without data, resources cannot be effectively allocated. She argued that one-time baiting often only addresses symptoms, not the root cause.

Councilor Cheng stated that when the city government deploys rodenticides, it must use bait boxes and announce the areas to avoid accidentally harming cats, dogs, or birds. She also suggested cross-departmental cooperation involving the Environmental Protection Bureau, Health Bureau, Public Works Department, Social Affairs Department, and Police Bureau to conduct regular monitoring of high-risk hotspots such as the train station, markets, and drainage systems, establishing open and transparent management data.

The Hsinchu City Environmental Protection Bureau responded in writing that it conducts outdoor disinfection in public areas citywide twice a year and requires relevant cleaning and maintenance contractors to enhance environmental cleanliness and disinfection to reduce rodent problems. It also strengthens environmental hygiene inspections of businesses; if poor hygiene or rat sightings are found, businesses are required to carry out cleaning, disinfection, and sealing.

Regarding the provision and placement of rodenticides, the bureau stated that it purchases rodenticide baits annually and distributes them through district offices to village chiefs for residents to obtain. To fully grasp the status of baiting in public areas, it has established a cloud-based form for various agencies to report the baiting status in their jurisdictions and continues to carry out cleaning, disinfection, and control measures. (Editor: Li Xizhang) 1150603